The sampler, compatible with machines that use Toshiba’s HD-DVD format, contains two scenes showcasing the leap in visual quality made possible by the new hi-def platform.
“We are showing our customers the future,” Digital Sin President Scott Taylor said. “We have well over 100 productions shot in hi-def, and now that the HD-DVD players are available, we are set to begin distributing hi-def content.” About 50 percent of the company's content is being shot in hi-def.
Toshiba and several other authorized electronics makers began rolling out HD-DVD players in March. Prices range from $499 to more than $1,000. Rival Sony is expected to release its own hi-def product line, based on its Blu-ray technology, later this year.
Taylor said the company also will support Blu-ray once it becomes available. Several Hollywood studios have taken sides in the HD-DVD vs. Blu-ray battle, and Digital Playground earlier this year announced it would support Blu-ray only, but Taylor said he believes consumers will decide which format prevails.
“It seems foolish to support one or the other so early in the game when it is ultimately consumer demand that will dictate the future,” Taylor said. “The Toshiba HD-DVD players are shipping now, so we want to be the first to offer adult products for them.”
While Taylor wants to be at the front of the hi-def curve, he said there are limitations on the ability of adult companies to put out hi-def DVDs.
"The only HD-DVD stampers are [tied up] with mainstream companies, so we are dropping hi-def footage onto DVD-9," Taylor explained. "If the stampers don't free up for adult, then we may have to put two disc sets out just to have enough room [for] the movie. But it does look great."
Taylor did point out that HD-DVD and Blu-ray each offer unique advantages, and that Digital Sin will produce content specifically tailored to each format rather than retrofitting content for both formats. Based on early demand from distributors, Taylor also plans to make a hi-def sampler DVD for his other company, New Sensations.
“The future of hi-def is here now,” Taylor said. “We are embracing it, and we are ready. When Blu-ray formats become available, I assure you, Digital Sin will lead the way on that front as well.”
Digital Sin’s two-scene hi-def sampler is available the first week of June through local Digital Sin distributors or Digital Sin sales representatives.
